Most fast food franchises are here also, and more are on the way. Panama is in growth mode. Panama City is getting well known as a paradise for shopper’s. The city has large shopping districts as well as modern shopping malls, such as the Multicentro Mall, Multiplaza Pacific Mall and the Albrook Mall.

The Newspaper La Prensa web site estimates, 75% of the Panamanian commercial sector operates under the franchise model. An interesting read: “The advantage of owning a franchise is that you can start right away, as everything is already done. When a business of this kind is started, the owner of the franchise provides procedure, quality and health manuals, among other, making operation easier”, per businessman Roberto Alfaro.

Panama has started several franchises that are doing quite well within the Country. Duran Coffee’s cafés have skyrocked in popularity over the last few years, and fast food restaurant Pio Pio.